The Rs53 crore Cauvery riverfront project, aimed at developing the northern and southern banks of the river passing through Srirangam and Odathurai, is currently undergoing cost negotiation talks between Trichy corporation and the contractor. Funds from the local body’s own resources, German funding (KfW), and the Union government have already been mobilized to beautify a 2.2km stretch of the river.
Inspection by Officials
District collector Pratik Tayal and corporation commissioner Veer Pratap Singh inspected the proposed components and beautification elements of the riverfront project on Saturday. While Trichy corporation was expected to commence the project before the assembly election, officials stated that the local body is conducting cost negotiations with the contractor identified through tendering. “All approvals and clearances required were already obtained, no major hindrances are there in commencing the work,” an official said.
Project Phases
Phase I will cover a 1.5km stretch between railway tracks on Odathurai road and the river bridge on the Trichy-Chennai National Highway (south bank). The second phase will beautify a 0.7km stretch between Amma Mandapam ghat and Geethapuram ghat (north bank). Planned features include walking tracks, a children’s play area, greenery, a watch tower, and an exclusive zone for performing rituals.
Uyyakondan Canal Pollution Concerns
The two senior officers also inspected the Uyyakondan canal following complaints about its rampant pollution. The collector and commissioner urged Water Resources Department (WRD) and corporation officials to check pollution threats and remove hyacinths that have concealed the canal at multiple places.
